Nechells Baths celebrates 100th birthday

Sep 7 2010 by Paul Suart, Birmingham Mail

A LANDMARK Birmingham swimming pool which has been converted into a state-of-the-art community centre has celebrated its 100th birthday.

Nechells Baths, in Nechells Park Road, formed part of a general provision of public baths and wash-houses across Birmingham when it opened in 1910.

But the resplendent Grade two listed building fell into disrepair and was closed in 1995 because it failed to compete with the city’s more modern, energy-efficient leisure centres.

But thanks to a £5.5 million refurbishment, with funding from Advantage West Midlands and the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Edwardian structured has been restored to its former glory and celebrated the very special milestone on Saturday.

The refurbished facility, owned by the Birmingham Foundation, houses a crèche and nursery facilities, an internet café as well as office accommodation for not-for-profit community organisations. It also hosts a youth club, community bingo and a thriving dance group.